Thread by @Gunti777

Many thanks to @worldsiop for focusing attention on #SriLanka
Since many have inquired here is a thread about the current ground situation. Its going to be long, so apologies in advance.
1/
siop-online.org/news/official-…

Childhood cancer in #SriLanka -
Around 750 children are diagnosed with cancer in SL each year and almost all of them are treated at the #NCISL. As in all public hospitals in SL, @ NCISL all care is provided with no cost to patients/caregivers.

2/
sciencedirect.com/science/articl…

Problem - Due to a multitude of reasons #SriLanka is facing an unprecedented financial crisis highlighted by an acute forex shortage. This has huge impact on medicine availability as most meds (specially cancer meds) are imported to the country.

3/

thelancet.com/journals/lanon…

Actions taken
1. @MoH_SriLanka is in discussion with the @WorldBank for emergency support
2. @MoH_SriLanka has opened a donation portal for well wishers to support meds procurement
msd.gov.lk/index.php/dona…
3. @slconcology has compiled a priority meds (Paed ca meds incl) list

4/

Many thanks to our many friends who offered to directly support childhood cancer services @ NCISL.
@cspramesh and @CancerGridIndia were the first to volunteer and arrangements are being made to deliver a stock of medicines with the kind logistical support of @IndiainSL.

5/

@StJudeResearch a longterm partner of #NCISL with @WHO are looking at providing a more longterm solution

@WorldSIOP, @IntChildCancer, @WHOSEARO have offered support in different capacities. Need to make special mention of @kidzcancerdoc, @Muhamma06175610 @n_D_ranasinghe

6/

But the biggest shout out goes to all Sri Lankans living here and abroad who have single handedly ensured that upto now, no child with cancer in #SriLanka has suffered in a significant way due to non availability of medicines.

7/

Future -
1. #SriLankaEconomicCrisis is not going to go away anytime soon. We cannot rely on individual well wisher support alone for too long. Hence the need for building a consortium of interested parties to ensure assured supply of meds.

8/

Future -
2. We have been proud of our low Rx abandonment rates. However as #SriLankaEconomicCrisis takes a toll on families of children with cancer, abandonment can be a big problem. Urgently need a social net to help vulnerable families during these troubled times.

9/

Future -
3. Successes in #ChildhoodCancer in SL were built on the back of a well trained, experienced, motivated workforce. Brain drain in these tough economic times is inevitable. Mitigating this is essential to ensure continuation of high quality care.

10/End